UNASHAMED
It is essential to embrace the message of the Gospel with confidence and pride. Encourage those around you to recognize that there is no reason to feel ashamed of sharing this vital truth. Engage with your neighbor and affirm that it is time to let your light shine brightly for all to see. When living out your faith becomes a natural part of your life, it fosters an environment where sharing the Gospel becomes second nature. Just as a sneeze occurs involuntarily, so too should the act of sharing your faith be a spontaneous expression of your relationship with God. This should not be a planned event but rather an organic part of your daily interactions as a disciple of Christ.
Moreover, it is crucial to understand that our existence transcends mere survival or the fulfillment of financial obligations. Life is not solely about paying bills or managing expenses; it is about fulfilling a divine purpose. We are not here merely to make a living; we are here to accomplish God’s mission on Earth. This realization is vital for anyone seeking to understand their true purpose. Each individual is created for a specific mission, and it is important to acknowledge that God is actively working in the world, inviting us to participate in His grand design. Encourage those around you to recognize their role in this mission, reminding them that they were made for a purpose far greater than the mundane aspects of daily life.
God has a divine purpose in this world, and as individuals who identify as children of God, it is our responsibility to engage with this purpose and actively participate in it. Each of us occupies a unique role within God’s overarching plan, which can be understood as our personal mission. This mission encompasses both a ministry directed towards fellow believers and a broader mission aimed at those who do not yet share our faith. The ministry refers to our service and support within the body of Christ, while the mission pertains to our outreach and service to those outside the faith community. Recognizing this dual responsibility enriches our lives, providing a sense of meaning that transcends mere existence.
In a recent conference in Abuja, I felt compelled to pose a thought-provoking question regarding the nature of success. Traditionally, success is often defined as the attainment of specific goals; however, this narrow definition can be misleading. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus shares the parable of the rich fool, who, despite his material abundance, is admonished for his misguided priorities. The rich fool’s life was characterized by a focus on accumulating wealth and possessions, leading to a stark realization that true fulfillment cannot be found in material gain. Instead, Jesus warns that the essence of life is not measured by the abundance of one’s possessions, but rather by the richness of one’s purpose and the impact one has on others. This perspective invites us to reflect on our own lives and consider how we can align our actions with God’s greater mission.
The essence of true success transcends the mere accumulation of material possessions and the achievement of personal goals.
While one may gather numerous accolades and accomplishments, it is imperative to recognize that genuine fulfillment lies in aligning one’s aspirations with the divine purpose set forth by God. The individual who may have achieved their own objectives, yet failed to embrace God’s overarching plan, is ultimately deemed a fool in the eyes of the divine. This perspective challenges the conventional understanding of success, urging individuals to reflect on the significance of their pursuits and the potential emptiness of a life solely focused on personal gain.
In the teachings of Jesus, particularly in Matthew 6:30-35, the emphasis is placed on prioritizing the kingdom of God above all else. Jesus admonishes against the anxiety surrounding basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, which are often the primary concerns of those who do not recognize a higher calling. Instead, He encourages believers to seek God’s mission for their lives, promising that all necessary provisions will follow. This inversion of priorities highlights a critical truth: without a commitment to fulfilling God’s purpose, life can devolve into a meaningless cycle of striving and competition. As William James aptly noted, the most valuable use of life is to dedicate it to endeavors that endure beyond our earthly existence, with the kingdom of God being the only pursuit that truly withstands the test of time.
The only enduring reality beyond our earthly existence is the kingdom of God; everything else is destined to fade away. This understanding compels us to lead lives that are driven by purpose, specifically lives that are dedicated to fulfilling God’s mission and His divine purposes. A central aspect of this mission is the salvation of souls, as God desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance. This raises a critical question regarding our individual roles in this divine plan. If we were to consider ourselves as the sole human being on Earth, entrusted with the monumental task of advancing God’s mission to save humanity, we must reflect on the gravity of that responsibility. How far would we allow this mission to progress, knowing that God is relying solely on us?
Many individuals may dismiss the idea of such a significant responsibility, believing that the project would inevitably fail if it rested on their shoulders alone. It is disheartening to note that some have gone through an entire year without sharing their faith or proclaiming the goodness of God to anyone. As previously mentioned, the promise of receiving power through the Holy Spirit is not merely for personal gain or for various endeavors; it is fundamentally for the purpose of being witnesses to God’s truth. In contemporary society, there is a tendency to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance for a multitude of personal interests, often overlooking the primary reason for His presence among us. The Holy Spirit was bestowed upon us to empower us as witnesses, and before we seek His direction for our businesses or personal needs, we must first recognize our calling to testify to His faithfulness and goodness in our lives.
Throughout my experiences, I have encountered a wide array of situations, none of which are inherently negative. However, it is crucial to reflect on the fundamental purpose behind God’s gift of the Holy Spirit to believers. The scripture clearly states that upon receiving the Holy Spirit, believers are endowed with power and are called to be witnesses for Christ. This directive, found in Acts 1:8, emphasizes the importance of starting our witness in Jerusalem, which symbolizes our immediate surroundings, particularly our families. The dining table serves as a metaphor for this intimate setting; it is here that we should consider the spiritual state of those closest to us. Are we actively praying for our family members who have yet to accept Jesus? Are we engaging in conversations that could lead them to faith? This is the essence of our Jerusalem.
The scripture further extends the call to witness beyond our immediate families to Judea, representing our extended family, friends, and neighbors. This broader circle encourages us to reach out to those who are part of our daily lives but may not yet know Christ. Additionally, the mention of Samaria challenges us to engage with individuals who may differ from us in language, appearance, or behavior. It is essential to recognize that every person, regardless of their background, is valued by God. When we encounter someone who seems different or unapproachable, we must resist the urge to distance ourselves. Instead, we should remember that Jesus sacrificed for all souls, and His desire is for everyone to come to repentance. Whether in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, or even the farthest reaches of the earth, our mission remains the same: to share the love and message of Christ with all humanity.
The desire for God is that none should be lost, and the question arises regarding what resources you possess that can be utilized for His purpose. This is a significant challenge in contemporary society, where every aspect of our lives—from our speech and influence to our social media presence and professional environments—can serve as instruments for divine use. Consider the biblical account of Peter, who was engaged in fishing when Jesus approached him. Jesus expressed a desire to use Peter’s boat, which was originally intended for commercial fishing, to deliver His message. By asking Peter to push the boat into the water, Jesus transformed a simple fishing vessel into a platform for preaching the gospel. In a similar manner, God seeks to employ the resources entrusted to you, urging you to recognize their potential for greater purposes.
He will certainly hold you responsible for your actions. It is imperative to understand the weight of this accountability. In conclusion, I would like to reference a pertinent scripture from Ezekiel Chapter 3, verses 18 and 19. The text states that when the Lord declares to the wicked, “You shall surely die,” and if you fail to provide a warning or guidance to redirect the wicked from their harmful ways, that individual will perish in their wrongdoing, and their blood will be required from you. Conversely, if you do offer a warning and the wicked choose not to heed it, they will still face the consequences of their actions, but you will have saved your own soul from guilt.
This scripture underscores the responsibility we bear to share the goodness of God and the message of the gospel with those around us. This mission begins at home, extending to our immediate family, and then to our broader community. It includes reaching out to those who may be different from us, whether in appearance, language, or culture. We are called to engage with all people, including those we encounter on social media platforms. It is essential to utilize every opportunity and influence we possess to promote the message of salvation, ensuring that we actively participate in God’s primary mission on Earth: to proclaim the message of salvation to all.
In today’s world, there is an increasing emphasis on political correctness, which often stifles expressions of faith in professional settings. Many individuals arrive at their workplaces at designated times, yet the question remains: what prevents them from arriving earlier to engage in prayer or scripture reading? Some may argue that their faith should not intrude upon their professional responsibilities, yet it is essential to consider the possibility of allocating time for spiritual practices without disrupting business operations. While it is not suggested that workplaces should be transformed into places of worship, one must ponder the potential for God to enact profound change within those environments. In contrast, individuals of other faiths often assert their religious practices openly, such as taking time for prayer during meetings, while Christians may feel constrained. It is crucial to reflect on how we can balance our professional lives with our spiritual commitments, allowing for the possibility that God may wish to use our workplaces as venues for transformation.
Consider the transformative potential of a space that God might create, one that serves as a sanctuary for individuals seeking sobriety. Imagine an environment where an alcoholic can enter and experience a profound change, perhaps triggered by a simple message or a piece of literature encountered in an office. This divine intervention could lead them to reflect on their life choices, prompting them to seek a new path. The challenge we face in discussing this topic is that many perceive the act of soul winning as merely instructing others to abandon their sinful ways. However, our true mission is to convey that help is available. No one shies away from genuine assistance; rather, we should emphasize that Jesus embodies the way, the truth, and the life. The burden of guilt and condemnation has already been lifted by His sacrifice, and it is essential to communicate this liberating message.
The essence of the gospel is fundamentally good news, not a source of condemnation. If individuals are distancing themselves from the gospel, it may be indicative of how it is being presented. Goodness naturally attracts people, and it is crucial to reflect on whether our approach embodies this principle. As we navigate our lives, it is vital to recognize that the only enduring reality is the kingdom of God. Each person has a mission to fulfill in reaching out to those who have yet to find faith, and this extends beyond mere financial obligations. One significant barrier that often hinders individuals from fully engaging with their divine mission is the weight of shame. It is imperative to confront and overcome this shame to effectively pursue the calling that God has placed on our lives.
In the limited time available this morning, I would like to explore the concept of shame as it relates to the Gospel, particularly referencing Romans 1:16. The Apostle Paul asserts his lack of shame regarding the Gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing its divine power for salvation to all who believe. This includes not only the Jewish people but also the Gentiles, which encompasses everyone else. The message is clear: the Gospel is a universal call to salvation, and Paul’s declaration serves as a reminder that there should be no embarrassment in sharing this transformative message. The question arises, however, as to why some individuals experience shame when it comes to proclaiming the Gospel.
Addressing this shame factor is crucial for fostering a culture of evangelism. Ideally, shame should stem from wrongdoing, yet many believers feel a sense of guilt or discomfort when sharing their faith. This phenomenon can be traced back to the narrative in Genesis, where Adam and Eve, after disobeying God, felt shame and hid from Him. Their response illustrates a psychological barrier that can persist among believers today, leading to a reluctance to share the Gospel. Paul’s bold proclamation serves as an encouragement for believers to overcome this shame, recognizing that the Gospel is not only a message of hope but also a powerful tool for salvation. As we reflect on this, it is essential to cultivate a mindset that embraces the Gospel without fear, allowing us to step forward confidently in our faith.
When reflecting on the profound message found in Romans 1 and 16, one must embrace the declaration of not being ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This gospel represents the very power of God that leads to salvation for all who believe. It is essential to recognize that the adversary cannot instill fear or intimidation in those who confidently proclaim their faith in Jesus. The question arises: what is the source of the shame that some feel when it comes to sharing their beliefs? A brief examination reveals that contemporary culture often glorifies a lifestyle steeped in sin, presenting it as appealing or “cool.” This societal perspective can lead individuals to feel hesitant about expressing their faith, as they may perceive a disconnect between their beliefs and the prevailing attitudes around them.
The influence of popular culture is significant, often promoting a mindset that equates moral decay with desirability. For instance, individuals who engage in reckless behavior are frequently celebrated, while virtuous actions are dismissed or ridiculed. This cultural narrative can create an environment where individuals feel compelled to remain silent about their faith, particularly in social settings where discussions of indulgence and hedonism dominate. A personal encounter with a taxi driver illustrates this point vividly; he recounted the escapades of young men who travel to Lagos for weekends filled with debauchery, highlighting a stark contrast to the values upheld by many Christians. Such experiences can leave believers feeling marginalized, as they struggle to articulate their convictions in a world that often seems to celebrate the very behaviors they oppose.
The pursuit of financial success is often accompanied by a sense of responsibility towards others, particularly those who are still struggling in life. These individuals, who may be someone’s sons, cousins, or siblings, represent a broader community that includes your colleagues and peers. If one lacks the passion to consider the future of these individuals, it raises the question of whether one can truly be relied upon for a higher purpose. It is essential to recognize that God seeks individuals who are willing to engage with the mission of uplifting others. The question remains: are you prepared to be part of this divine plan?
In addition to the distractions of popular culture, the fear of rejection significantly hinders many from fulfilling their calling. While some may bravely face rejection in business by submitting numerous proposals, the same courage often falters when it comes to sharing the gospel. The reluctance to approach someone with the message of Christ’s love stems from a fear of being turned away. This fear can prevent one from conveying the transformative message that Jesus offers, which includes forgiveness and relief from life’s burdens. Furthermore, the fear of being labeled a hypocrite or feeling inadequate due to past mistakes can paralyze individuals from taking action. A poignant example is shared by a pastor who, despite his early commitment to preaching, struggled with the weight of expectations and past failures. It is crucial to confront these fears and recognize that the call to share the gospel transcends personal shortcomings.
One day, a conversation arose regarding a rather unsavory practice among the residents of a hostel during lunchtime. It was noted that if individuals arrived late and found themselves in need of more food, they would often resort to taking food from others’ tables. The established rule was that if one was caught in the act, they would face a rather humiliating punishment: standing in the center of the dining hall with a pot placed atop their head. Although the individual recounting this story claimed to have never engaged in such behavior, hunger eventually led him to succumb to temptation. While he was in the process of taking food, a senior student caught him red-handed and promptly escorted him to the middle of the dining area, where he was made to wear the pot. The incident drew the attention of many, who mockingly referred to him as “pastor” and “born-again.” This experience left a lasting impression on him, and he vowed never to preach again during his time at the school, burdened by the shame of that moment.
Reflecting on the theme of redemption, one might consider the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, as recounted in the Gospel of John, chapter 4. This woman, who was living in a state of adultery with her fifth partner, underwent a profound transformation after her interaction with Jesus, ultimately becoming a powerful evangelist. It raises an intriguing question about why Jesus consistently reached out to those grappling with personal issues. Similarly, when confronted with a woman caught in adultery, Jesus famously asked her accusers about their whereabouts, declaring that He did not condemn her and urging her to lead a life free from sin. If someone were to inquire about her experience the following day, she might simply respond that she felt at peace, having encountered forgiveness. This narrative serves as a reminder that no single mistake can nullify God’s purpose for one’s life. Even if one has faced challenges, such as having a child out of wedlock, the message remains clear: God offers forgiveness and encourages individuals to move forward, focusing on their divine mission.
I take pride in the message of the gospel, as it transcends my past experiences and actions. It is fundamentally about the grace of God, who has extended forgiveness to me, enabling me to serve as a testament to His mercy. If He can forgive me, then He can certainly extend that same forgiveness to others. Consider the example of Peter, who, despite denying Jesus three times, went on to deliver a powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost, leading thousands to glorify God. Peter did not allow his momentary lapse to define him; instead, he embraced his divine purpose and fulfilled the mission God had set for him.
Many individuals may find themselves burdened by past mistakes, such as dishonesty in the workplace, leading to feelings of shame and self-doubt. However, it is crucial to recognize that forgiveness is available, and personal growth can emerge from these experiences. Acknowledging one’s shortcomings and embracing the transformative power of Jesus can serve as a powerful testimony to others. This notion is echoed in the story of the woman caught in adultery, where Jesus emphasized that only those without sin should cast the first stone, highlighting the universal nature of human imperfection. It is essential to remember that societal pressures and the fear of being an outlier should not deter one from sharing the gospel. Righteousness often requires one to resist the current of peer pressure, a challenge that many adults face as well.
The inclination of certain individuals to consume alcohol often stems from the influence of their social circles. When friends engage in drinking, it creates a collective atmosphere that encourages participation, leading to outings where the act of drinking becomes a shared experience. If one were to inquire of an adult why they are intoxicated, the response might simply be that they were socializing with friends. This scenario illustrates a troubling reality: many individuals metaphorically “hang their minds” outside before entering social situations, effectively disengaging their critical thinking. This detachment can result in behavior that is not reflective of their true selves, as the environment and peer pressure exert a powerful influence, compelling them to act in ways they might not otherwise choose.
In light of this, it is crucial for individuals to recognize the importance of maintaining their mental presence in social settings.
The next time one encounters peer pressure, it is vital to affirm to oneself that their mind remains engaged and that they possess the autonomy to think independently. The fear of being perceived as different can stifle open dialogue, leading to a reluctance to voice dissenting opinions, especially in discussions that may contradict popular beliefs. This reluctance can perpetuate the misconception that Christians are weak or overly conformist, deterring individuals from expressing their faith for fear of being associated with a stereotype. It is essential to understand that God expects His followers to rise above such pressures, to stand firm in their beliefs, and to engage in conversations that reflect their values, thereby demonstrating the strength and conviction that true faith embodies.
In contemporary society, there exists a pervasive skepticism towards Christians and pastors, often leading to the assumption that they are untrustworthy. As I find myself aboard an aircraft, seated next to a fellow passenger who greets me with a smile, we engage in conversation. When I mention my role as a pastor, I have previously encountered situations where such a declaration resulted in silence from my interlocutor until the flight concluded. However, I remain steadfast in my faith and identity; I will not renounce my commitment to Jesus Christ. Regardless of the preconceived notions one may hold about pastors, I embrace my role without hesitation. Similarly, as a Christian, I acknowledge that others may harbor negative impressions of believers, yet this will not deter me from proclaiming my faith as a follower of Jesus, firmly rejecting any association with malevolence.
To encapsulate the essence of my message, there are three critical points to remember. First, the gospel possesses an unparalleled power to save, and there is no reason to feel ashamed of it. This transformative message is a source of strength and hope. Second, it is essential to recognize that God has a unique ability to utilize individuals despite their flaws and past mistakes. The biblical examples of figures such as Paul, who once persecuted Christians, and Rahab, a woman of ill repute who became part of Jesus’ lineage, illustrate that no one is beyond redemption. God’s purpose for your life remains unchanged, regardless of your past actions. Lastly, it is important to understand that God will hold you accountable for the influence you have on those around you and for the responsibilities entrusted to you.
He will certainly hold you responsible for your actions. It is imperative to understand the weight of this accountability. In conclusion, I would like to reference a pertinent scripture from Ezekiel Chapter 3, verses 18 and 19. The text states that when the Lord declares to the wicked, “You shall surely die,” and if you fail to provide a warning or guidance to redirect the wicked from their harmful ways, that individual will perish in their wrongdoing, and their blood will be required from you. Conversely, if you do offer a warning and the wicked choose not to heed it, they will still face the consequences of their actions, but you will have saved your own soul from guilt.
This scripture underscores the responsibility we bear to share the goodness of God and the message of the gospel with those around us. This mission begins at home, extending to our immediate family, and then to our broader community. It includes reaching out to those who may be different from us, whether in appearance, language, or culture. We are called to engage with all people, including those we encounter on social media platforms. It is essential to utilize every opportunity and influence we possess to promote the message of salvation, ensuring that we actively participate in God’s primary mission on Earth: to proclaim the message of salvation to all.